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Abilify vs. Vraylar

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Aripiprazole (Abilify) and cariprazine (Vraylar) are both atypical antipsychotics used to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. However, there are some key differences between them. Aripiprazole (Abilify) is available in both brand-name and generic forms, while cariprazine (Vraylar) is only available as a brand-name medication. Aripiprazole (Abilify) can be used by both adults and children for certain conditions, whereas cariprazine (Vraylar) is only approved for use in adults. Additionally, aripiprazole (Abilify) comes in various forms, including tablets, oral solutions, and injections, while cariprazine (Vraylar) is only available as an oral capsule. Both medications can cause side effects like uncontrolled muscle movements and sleep problems, but cariprazine (Vraylar) is less likely to cause weight gain compared to other antipsychotic medications, including aripiprazole (Abilify).

Aripiprazole

(Abilify)

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Vraylar

(cariprazine)

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Summary for Abilify

Prescription only

Aripiprazole (Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat different mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. It works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain to help control thoughts, mood, and behaviors. It's available in many dosage forms, including an oral tablet, solution, and an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that can be used in adults and children as young as 6 years old for certain conditions. Common side effects include headache, movement problems, and sleep problems.

Indications for Abilify

Pros and Cons for Abilify

Pros

Cons

  • Can make you feel restless
  • Risk of movement problems that can be permanent
  • Can raise blood sugar and cholesterol
  • Can take several weeks to see the full effects

Common Side Effects for Abilify

  • Headache (27%)
  • Agitation (19%)
  • Trouble sleeping (18%)
  • Anxiety (17%)
  • Nausea (15%)
  • Vomiting (11%)
  • Constipation (11%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Trouble staying still (10%)

Note: Side effects were reported by adults who took aripiprazole in clinical studies for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Warnings for Abilify

  • Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain
  • Difficulty controlling movements
  • Changes in blood pressure and higher risk of falls
  • Risk of infection (from low white blood cell count)
  • Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
  • Seizures
  • Impulse-control problems

Summary for Vraylar

Prescription only

Vraylar (cariprazine) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in teens and adults. It can also be added to other medications to help treat depression in adults. You take a dose by mouth once a day. Common side effects include uncontrolled body movements and restlessness. Compared to some other antipsychotic medications, Vraylar (cariprazine) usually causes little to no weight gain.

Indications for Vraylar

Pros and Cons for Vraylar

Pros

Cons

  • Might take several weeks to fully work
  • Risk of uncontrolled body movements
  • Can cause restlessness or feeling like you can't sit still
  • Not safe during pregnancy

Common Side Effects for Vraylar

  • Uncontrolled muscle movements (up to 19%)
  • Trouble sleeping (up to 13%)
  • Headache (up to 11%)
  • Drowsiness (up to 8%)
  • Constipation (up to 7%)
  • Nausea (up to 7%)
  • Restlessness (up to 6%)

*Note: Side effects listed were reported by people in studies who took Vraylar (cariprazine) for schizophrenia.

Warnings for Vraylar

  • Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
  • Suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
  • Difficulty controlling movements (tardive dyskinesia)
  • High blood sugar, high cholesterol, and weight gain
  • Low white blood cell count
  • Higher risk of falls and fainting
  • Seizures
  • Trouble controlling body temperature
  • Difficulty swallowing

Prices with our coupons for Abilify vs. Vraylar

Price Card Drug Icon
Aripiprazole30 tablets / 5mg
$12.66$439.57
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Vraylar30 capsules / 1.5mg
$1,535.20$1,992.32
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